Huntto and Orisson

[tim272]

I will be arriving at Bayonne late in the day, so will be heading up to St Jean early the next day. If I start out on the Camino around midday, what are the chances that Huntto and Orisson will be filled up by the time I arrive there? I see that they are 20 and 18 beds each. Do most pilgrims cross to Roncesvalles on the first day? Thank you very much for your advice...

[HuskyNerd]

You should make a reservation. Chances are high that Orisson will be full. Hunto is a different matter and may be available. Just give a call to Orisson and make your reservation so you know for sure you´ll have a bed.

[Lipka149]

tim -

If at all possible, try to get to SJPP so you can start in the early morning and do the distance to Roncesvalles the same day. I know it is tempting to stay in Huntto or Orisson, but to answer you, yes !, most pilgrims get to Roncesvalles without stopping. With only 38 beds along the way and many more than that starting, there is no choice.

Aside from the practical aspect of lodging, there are advantages to making this First Day one of purpose and commitment. Better, IMHO, to spend a day shopping for supplies in SJPP and girding one's loins than starting out late and taking up a space better left to someone who would really struggle to make this first jump in one day.

Besides, you are probably not going to WANT to stop in Orisson. Once you start, brother, you are going to WANT to go the distance !

Just my 2 cents ...

[Covey]

I do love the concept of an "early start" and "around midday".

The life of a Pilgrim starts at 0500hrs when the anti-social buggers with the head torches and the hob-nailed boots start banging around.

The more civilised Pilgrim pokes their nose outside the albergue door around 0730hrs, and is immediately looking for two things. Firstly coffee and secondly the yellow arrows pointing the Way for their first steps of the day.

[Lipka149]

The life of a Pilgrim starts at 0500hrs when the anti-social buggers with the head torches and the hob-nailed boots start banging around.

The more civilised Pilgrim pokes their nose outside the albergue door around 0730hrs, and is immediately looking for two things. Firstly coffee and secondly the yellow arrows pointing the Way for their first steps of the day.

Ha ! Anti-social is right. No consideration for us lazy sleep-ins.